The Off-Broadway run of Judy and Me, which started life in 2002 at Rose's Turn and subsequently played the Arthur Seelen Theatre and The Producers Club, will play its final performance at St. Luke's Theatre Dec. 14 at 7 PM.

Peter Mac
Photo by Liz Liguori

Upon closing, the production, which officially opened Oct. 19, will have played 15 previews and 67 performances.

In a statement producer Dr. John Schaefer said, "Judy and Me — a play by Peter Mac can no longer afford the rent at St. Luke's Theatre which exceeds $ 34,000 a month. Further our choice in a young PR firm with little experience and their inability to secure a mainstream review (despite their commitment and protestation to the contrary) will force us to close our doors on December 14th at 7 PM. I would like to note that audience reaction to the show has been wonderful. Audience attendance to the show has not been great. Both Peter and I are grateful that we have reached a secular audience with this groundbreaking production. We can confirm at this time that there are offers of a tour in the near term. So to that end Judy and Me will rise again."

Garland impersonator Peter Mac, who also penned the autobiographical play, co-stars opposite Long Island native Christopher Brick in the role of Anthony "Tony" Castalano (Brick replaced Dusty St. Amand during rehearsals). The cast also features Elyse Beyer, Jean Ann Kump, Chris McCabe and Basil Meola.

"Addressing the issues of both homophobia and domestic abuse," the play, according to press notes, "recounts the true story of 16-year old character Anthony, trapped in the narrow-minded suburb of Elmont, Long Island (and the real hometown of playwright Mac).

Christopher Brick

"An outcast at Sewankawa High School in Floral Park, Anthony is the daily target of verbal and physical torment from his classmates. His life at home is equally tenuous, as his volatile, violent father is a constant source of pain to both Anthony and his mother. The teen finds his only escape in the music and entertainment of the iconic Judy Garland, who comes to life before his very eyes and counsels him through his daily struggles." The creative team also includes set designer Tim McMath, lighting designer Josh Iacovelli and costume designer Viviane Galloway.

The remaining four show times are Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 7 PM.

Tickets, priced $20-$55, are available by calling (212) 239-6200 or by visiting www.telecharge.com.